Gary Barlow set to miss The X Factor launch as new promo pic released

Gary Barlow is set to miss the press launch of the new series of The X Factor following the stillbirth of his daughter Poppy, as ITV released a new promo pic showing the four judges strutting in front of their private jet.

Nicole Scherzinger, Tulisa Contostavlos and Louis Walsh will promote the show at London’s Corinthia Hotel tomorrow without their colleague after Gary revealed his baby daughter was stillborn 11 days ago.

The singer had bravely managed to perform at the London 2012 closing ceremony with his Take That bandmates Sunday but understandably wants to avoid media attention at the launch event, ahead of the show’s return on Saturday.

An X Factor spokesman confirmed he would be missing the event due to ‘personal circumstances’, with a source telling The Sun: ‘Gary is in no fit state to do it as all his fans understand.’

Gary Barlow performed at the Olympics closing ceremony but will not be attending the official launch of The X Factor (Picture: Getty)

Barlow recently admitted he struggled to enjoy being a judge last year and said he uses different techniques to give himself a confidence boost.

‘I always take deep breaths before going on stage. An ego charge is good too,’ he said.

‘Say to yourself, “I’m the man, I’m the man” over and over until it sinks in.’

Ahead of the return of The X Factor ITV has released a series of promotional images, the most recent of which depicts the four judges confidently striding in front of their own private jet.

Nicole and Tulisa are both baring their legs in short silver dresses teamed with killer heels, while Gary and Louis are both wearing sharp suits.